Hawaii County police look for two men who tried to rob woman, 82

Hawaii County police are looking for two men who attempted to rob an 82-year-old female visitor at a Hilo park Thursday morning, police said.

The woman was walking near Liliuokalani Park on Banyan Drive in Hilo when one man approached her from behind and tried to take her handbag, resulting in her falling to the ground, police said. The other suspect watched.

The two fled empty-handed, police said.

Hawaii County police said the woman was uninjured and declined treatment.

One suspect is described as in his 20s, about 6 feet tall with a slim build. The other is about 5-feet 5 inches to 5-feet 7 inches tall, with a slim build. Both wore dark clothing.

The case has been classified as an attempted second-degree robbery.

Police caution the park users to be aware of their surroundings and to use a flashlight during hours of darkness, although the Banyan Drive peninsula area is considered relatively safe.

Police are asking any witnesses to the robbery attempt to call police at 935-3311 or Detective Joel Field at 961-2381 or email him at jfield@hawaiicounty.gov. Anonymous tipsters may call CrimeStoppers at 961-8300 in Hilo or 329-8181 in Kona.